Welcome to PlasterX Melbourne! Most homeowners would agree that having perfectly flat and smooth walls is important to have perfectly flat and smooth walls for a harmonious overall look of the room. Unfortunately, even on high-quality and professionally treated surfaces, unpleasant cracks in the plaster can appear over time. Do you know the problem?

What are the causes of cracks in plaster walls? How to prevent it and what to do? Our experts will be happy to advise you and provide practical tips on how to repair plaster cracks on walls and ways to help prevent the problem.

The main causes of plaster cracks

The appearance of cracks in plaster can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from the quality of the materials used to the operating conditions of the premises.

Why plaster cracks:

1. One of the most common causes of cracks in plaster walls is shrinkage of the material during drying. A new layer of material applied to the surface contains a significant amount of moisture. As it evaporates, its volume decreases, which can lead to the appearance of small, randomly located shrinkage cracks in the plaster. This is especially true when the material is applied in a thick layer or dries too quickly.
2. Over time, any building undergoes some deformation, especially new buildings during the first years after construction. These small shifts can be transmitted to the plastered layer. The effects of temperature fluctuations and humidity can lead to expansion and contraction of various building materials, which can also cause cracks in plastered walls.
3. Improper surface preparation before applying the material. If the substrate is not sufficiently cleaned of dust, dirt, or oil stains, the adhesion between the plaster and the wall will be weak. This can lead not only to the material peeling off, but also to the appearance of cracks.
4. Cracks in old plaster on walls often appear due to the natural aging of the material. Over time, it loses its elasticity, becomes more brittle and prone to cracking under the influence of external factors.
5. Mechanical damage, such as bumps or drilling into the walls, can also lead to cracking.

Determining the main cause of cracks in the plaster is the first step to effectively solving the problem.

Types of cracks and what they can mean

Different types of cracks in plaster can indicate different causes of the problem. Carefully observing the damage can help identify the factors that led to their appearance and choose the right method of repair.

Types of cracks in plaster and what they can mean:

• Shrinkage cracks usually appear as thin, shallow, and randomly spaced lines. Most often they appear during the first few weeks after applying fresh plaster, while it is drying. This damage rarely represents a serious structural problem and is more of a cosmetic defect.
• More serious are structural cracks, which can be caused by foundation movement or other significant deformations of the building. They are often wider, deeper, and may have a distinct direction, for example, diagonally along a wall or over window and door openings. The appearance of such cracks can indicate serious problems with the stability of the structure and requires a thorough examination by specialists.
• Cracks caused by temperature fluctuations – these often appear near heating radiators or fireplaces. They can be of different widths and depths and often reappear after repairs if the root cause is not eliminated.
• Microcracks in plaster are very thin and superficial. There are various reasons for this, including drying a thin layer of material too quickly or using a low-quality coating. Although such damage may look unsightly, it usually does not pose a structural threat.

If you notice that the plaster is constantly cracking after repair, this may indicate that the root cause of the problem has not been addressed. In this case, a more detailed diagnosis is necessary.

How to Prevent Plaster Cracks

Following the instructions for applying surface treatment materials and using quality products can significantly reduce the risk of plaster cracks on the walls and ceiling in your home, namely:

• First of all, you need to properly prepare the surface. The walls should be clean, dry and strong. Bumps and weak areas with old plaster should be removed. To improve adhesion, it is recommended to use a high-quality primer suitable for the type of surface and plaster mixture.
• Prepare the plaster mortar according to the manufacturer's instructions, strictly observing the proportions.
• Plaster application: the thickness of each layer should not exceed the manufacturer's recommended thickness; if it is necessary to apply a thick layer, it is better to make several thin layers with intermediate drying of each of them.
• Optimal conditions for drying the new plaster: no drafts, direct sunlight and too high or low temperatures.
• In new buildings that are still undergoing shrinkage, it is recommended to use a reinforcing mesh during plastering. The mesh helps to distribute the load and prevent cracks in areas of possible deformation. This will keep the walls in good condition for many years.
• Regular inspection of the plastered surfaces will help to detect small cracks in time and take measures to eliminate them, preventing their growth.

So remember that preventing cracks in plaster is a comprehensive approach. That's why, when you choose PlasterX Melbourne, you get not just a repair, but a thorough analysis of the condition of your surfaces and an individual work plan. Our experts use time-tested methods and modern materials to ensure the durability and aesthetic appeal of your home. We value your time and comfort, so we guarantee that the work will be completed on time with minimal interference with your usual rhythm of life. Entrust your walls to the professionals of PlasterX (Melbourne) and enjoy the perfect result.